Welcome Back, Self

"The Garden's Tale" ~Volbeat (I suggest everyone hear this song at least once, and read the lyrics as you listen. You will be forever changed.)

It has been over two months since my last blog, and I think I'm ready to get back in the saddle. Much has changed in the past few months, and, in turn, this has changed a lot of my views on the (201). Not all of them...but a significant amount.

First, I must apologize to readers (if there are any), but mostly to myself, for not blogging. This was supposed to be my outlet, my place of peace and/or chaos. Instead, I made it a burden and neglected the commitment I had made to myself to blog regularly.

In plain words: I had a freak out (aka, break-up...'nuff said) and needed some time alone. I'm human. *gasp*

That being said---welcome back, self. Now back to my regularly scheduled (201)-ing.

***NEW FIND: Bistro 55, Route 17 South, Rochelle Park, NJ.***

Now, Bistro 55 may not be the newest restaurant ever, but it was new to me and I am in full-blown love with this place. From the atmosphere and service to the food and drinks, I was totally satisfied.

Bistro 55 is a free-standing building on Route 17, which I'm sure many of you have driven past at least 100 times, but never thought to try out. I was with you for a long time. I actually went because my mother had decided to have Mother's Day dinner there for herself, my grandmother, and my aunt. EUREKA!

The atmosphere is a low-lit, wood-centered, large room with a classy and modern decor. The place felt perfect for people who consider themselves young---but not that young. This would be people like myself, mid-twenties to mid-thirties...ish. The bar is front and center upon entering, and the room is flanked with groups of tables. It gives off a comfortable, private and, yet, popular vibe.

The service was impeccable. Our server, Diego, knew every detail about every item--both food and drink--on the menu, and was pleasant, helpful, and all smiles. (I give him TONS of credit for putting up with our table of 7 and everyone's constant questions and comments. My family is far from "easy," but I love them all the same.)

Their drink menu about 80% beer--celebrate!--and contains so many beers that I can rarely find anywhere else. For example, they had my favorite beer, Franziskaner, which I've only ever seen in Bottle King and at The Shepherd and the Knucklehead bar in Haledon. And since the server was so helpful, he was able to suggest a beer for my brother, who was having trouble deciding. And he loved it!

The food was as impressive as the atmosphere, service, and beer selection. Problem: I can't remember what we all ordered, since my blogging rituals have been sub-par. Epic fail on my part. I do, however, remember one of the appetizers because I've been dreaming about it ever since, so here goes: it was an entire giant clove of garlic, which had been slowly oven-roasted, served with saga bleu cheese, tomato chutney, and parmasean brioche crisps.

I think I found the answer to life's big questions in the form of slow-roasted garlic cloves and chutney. I shit you not. Check it out for yourself. You will NOT be disappointed.

Their full menu is available online at http://www.southcitygroup.net/ and I highly suggest going at least once. The price range was fair, middle-range, I'd say. This wasn't Ruth's Chris, but it certainly wasn't McDonalds either.

To anyone reading: thank you--much appreciated. This entry may be short and sweet, but I figured since I was just getting back into this, I'd start off simple, with clean lines. Next time, I'll be bold, maybe even fess up to some of my life changes! *bigger gasp!*

Until then, stay classy, Bergen County.

"I Must Be Dreaming," ~The Maine (This whole album brightens every minute of my day that's spent listening to it.)